Vont began a few years ago as a company with a superior bicycle light that could also be used as a flashlight. Over the years they have evolved to include multiple means of lighting up the outdoors; for camping, hiking, caving, watersports… just about anything you need to see in the dark. Included among these is their Ultimate Survival Kit, a trio of products with his and hers duplication that includes battery powered camping lanterns, flashlights, and headlamps.

The products are very lightweight, water and drop resistant, and compact. And, every order from Vont comes with a lifetime warranty. You get a full refund or fast replacement (no questions asked) should you find the quality below expectations. They provide easy online instructional videos instead of hard-to-read paper instructions in the packaging.

Vont has grown to include more than 50 electronics products these days, expanding to indoor lighting, audio equipment, and electronic scales. But they started with a top notch bicycle light. They know what they’re doing from practice.

Disclosure: I was contacted by a representative of Vont with an offer to receive their Ultimate Survival Kit. The products in the kit were provided at no cost to me. My only responsibility was an agreement to complete this review. I was not pressured in any way to make a positive endorsement.

The camping lanterns are made of durable, lightweight materials, and pack a powerful 30 led’s that cast light 360 degrees. The battery use is quite efficient, averaging 90 hours of lighting with typical AA batteries.

A unique, collapsible design reduces and increases the light as you collapse or expand the lantern. When collapsed it’s as small as your phone, and easily fits in your backpack or camping kit. Great for having at home too for those unexpected power outages.

The lantern is able to survive a 10-foot drop and being temporarily submerged under water, so don’t worry if you accidently drop it in the creek… that is unless it floats away.

Paula and I had a delightful evening at our New Mexico home sitting on the deck looking out at the nearby mountains. We turned on the two lanterns to light up the table between us as we snacked and chatted. Our makeshift porch picnic was very well lit, but I didn’t feel a glare from the led’s. I like the adjustability of the brightness, simply by opening the lantern wider or closing it down some. You turn it back off by closing completely.

The Vont flashlights are ultra light and portable. Easy to carry around. Compact enough for a pants or jacket pocket, lightweight enough as a lighting essential in your hiking pack. The same five tactical light settings that the U.S. Special Forces use are included: ( (low | medium | high | sos | strobe).

They also come with a fully adjustable beam width. I found this to be particularly useful. Simply slide the flashlight cylinder in and out for a wider, or more narrowly focused beam. The wide light is great for hiking trails, lighting up not only what’s ahead of you, but what is beside you off-trail as well. Extending the cylinder creates a brighter, more focused long light. Paula and I used it to look for something in the darkness that had mysteriously appeared earlier in the day, but seemed to have just as mysteriously disappeared. The long beam easily enabled us to see a hundred feet away.

Vont has tested their flashlights under freezing conditions, run over by a truck, and underwater submersion. This product is durable and survivable. The led’s have proven to offer more than 20,000 hours of light.

Over the years I’ve tested probably four other headlamps. Most of them work as advertised, including this one, but I found the Vont headlamp to be superior to the others in it’s ease of use. When you are wearing a headlamp, you can’t see it. You can’t see the controls to adjust it. So some that I have used are a pain because I have to take it off, adjust, then put it back on. With the Vont headlamp, the controls are very simple and strategically placed. Just reach up to your forehead and touch. Very easy adjustments make this one stand out.

The headlamp will light up an entire tent, a road or your hiking trail. Batteries are included in the packaging for your convenience.

Another nice feature is the ergonomic 45° tilt: it is designed to throw light at a 45° angle. Other headlamps use an awkward 30° angle, causing occasional neck strain.

Like the other products in the Ultimate Survival Kit, the headlamps are waterproof, drop-resistant and portable: don’t worry about being out in the rain or dropping your headlamp. And, they come with the Vont lifetime warranty.

Due to time constraints I was unable to test the headlamp out in the field, but I did try it in the house and found that everything worked as it should. It fits comfortably, is easily adjustable to any size head, and the controls are a breeze to operate. I am completely satisfied.

How to Get the Ultimate Survival Kit by Vont

The Ultimate Survival Kit integrated Outdoor Lighting package by Vont is available on Amazon, retailing for US$47.95, a great price for (2) camping lanterns, (2) headlamps, and (2) tactical flashlights. Buy them as a kit for your hiking partner and yourself, or separately from Amazon or the Vont website.

I feel confident about each of the individual products. You will be pleased with your purchase.

This post was created by Jeff Clark. Please feel free to use the sharing icons below, or add your thoughts to the comments. Pack it in, pack it out. Preserve the past. Respect other hikers. Let nature prevail. Leave no trace.

Whether you’re shopping for others or yourself, these sales are the best opportunities to save big on gear this year.

Holiday sales are a great opportunity to snag gifts for your loved ones—not to mention gear for yourself—but it can be hard to know where to look.

To streamline the shopping process for you this year, Outside Magazine has compiled a list of bomber deals and promotions from brands in the outdoor world.

They’ve tested gear from all of these brands, and provided their product recommendations, too.

Bookmark this page and check back frequently for more pre-Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals—they’ll be updating it with the latest promotions that are worth your time.

See the deals…

Nearly 20 years ago prAna changed the adventure and travel-wear world when they released their iconic Stretch Zion line of pants. They provide a combination of comfort, good looks, durability and versatility for anyone who loves the outdoors. Stretch Zion is a nylon fabric that can stand up to just about anything—it takes up very little luggage room and you can wear it scaling cliff faces or to the office just as easily. Above all, it just feels good.

The one-of-a-kind fabric is water-resistant, quick drying, durable, wrinkle resistant, and comes with UPF 50+ protection. prAna was so proud of what they created, they named it after one of the most inspirational places on earth: Zion National Park.

I became aware of prAna some 7-8 years ago when I worked for an outdoors outfitter. My first stretch Zions were a pair of the convertible hiking pants. I liked the ability to zip off the legs as a cold morning turned into a warm afternoon.

Well, I still have that original pair, and over the years I have built my stretch Zion collection considerably. I now own three pair of shorts in khaki, blue and forest green. In addition to the convertibles I also have a pair of straight leg in the sepia color, and plain ol’ stretch Zion pants in chocolate brown.

Disclosure: I purchased all of the above prAna stretch Zion pants myself. I am not on any kind of affiliate program. I have not been contacted to provide this review. It is simply my own opinion of the products.

The prAna Stretch Zion Family of Pants

My Thoughts

Are you getting the feeling that prAna stretch Zion are my favorite pants? That would be fair. With the stretchy fabric they are super comfortable. I wear them for hiking. I wear them to the grocery store. Many use them for climbing. They are certainly durable enough.

The prAna stretch Zion are four season pants. The shorts obviously are great for late spring, through summer and early fall. All of the long pants are plenty warm enough for most winter months. If the outdoors temperature is below 25° I might put on a pair of long johns beneath, but above freezing they are definitely fine.

When I’m hiking I usually have a camera with me. I get down at ground level for macro shots of wildflowers and creepy crawlies. Whether I’m squatting or laying on the ground, I can count on the stretch Zions to move with me. They stretch where you need stretch; at the knees, in the waist and butt.

The fabric is plenty durable. Kneeling on granite or rolling in dirt, scrambling over boulders or fording a stream; they always come back ready for more. I still have and use all my purchases after many, many cycles in the washing machine.

The fabric is also quite water resistant. Whether you’re walking in tall grass with early morning dew or get caught in an unexpected rain shower, most of the moisture beads up and runs off. Short of uncomfortable hard shell pants, not much will stay totally dry in a downpour, but the stretch Zion pants wick moisture away very well if they do get soaked through. They dry very fast.

Ok, I’m going to tell on myself here. I was wearing a pair of the shorts for a hike in Shining Rock Wilderness along Little East Fork River when we came to a crossing. The other guys rock hopped across just fine. I got about half way and slipped on a wet rock ending up in the drink (I’ve been known to do that). I was fine. No harm, no foul. We all had a good laugh. But my point here is that within 20 minutes the stretch Zion shorts were completely dry.

Do you like pockets? I sure do. All of these come with a double-zip cargo pocket and deep front pockets. There are two pockets in the back, one with a protective flap to keep your wallet or other valuables secure. The long pants have snap buttons on the lower legs so you can roll up the cuffs easily. There are also small vent holes at the upper inside thigh for breathability.

So what do I think? I love all of the prAna stretch Zion family of hiking pants. They are definitely comfortable, so they make a fine all-purpose pant. They look nice enough for a casual work environment and are functional enough for most outdoors activities. They will last for you too. My oldest pair are now seven years old and look just as fresh as new.

How to Get Your Own

Each of the different styles of stretch Zion pants come in multiple colors, plenty of different waist and inseam sizes, and they all come with a built-in adjustable belt if you happen to lose five pounds from all that great exercise you’re getting, or if you eat too many of grandma’s Christmas cookies.

The prAna brand can be found at most major outdoors retailers if you want to try them on before purchase. Otherwise, you can buy directly from prAna here. $69 for shorts and $89 for long pants may seem a bit pricey at first, but I feel they are well worth what you pay. If you’re patient and wait for a holiday weekend, you can sometimes grab a pair for 25% off.

Just as in-store, major online outdoors providers offer prAna products as well. I use Google to ask who has the best deals going at any given time. You can usually score a pair at a reasonable price.

This post was created by Jeff Clark. Please feel free to use the sharing icons below, or add your thoughts to the comments. Pack it in, pack it out. Preserve the past. Respect other hikers. Let nature prevail. Leave no trace.

Loom shoes are city-appropriate and designed with outdoor activities in mind. This wear-anywhere sneaker is meant to tackle any setting – rain, mud, snow, slush, dry pavement – you name it.

These sneakers are well-cushioned, impact-resistant, and have breathable upper material, making sure that your feet stay fresh and comfortable at all times.

The interior is made of high quality merino wool. This breathable surface is temperature-regulating, anti-odor, antibacterial, durable, and super comfortable, all at the same time. The upper is a 100% waterproof and breathable knit layer that will keep your feet nice and dry in all seasons. The proprietary Excelcast sole is designed to maximize energy return and absorb shock, and is non-marking.

Despite being waterproof, the material absorbs and releases moisture from the air to protect against rashes and bad foot odor, a different concept from most waterproof liners. This also makes them easy to wash.

Disclosure: I was contacted by a representative of Loom Footwear with an offer to receive a sample pair of shoes. They were provided at no cost to me. My only responsibility was an agreement to complete this review. I was not pressured in any way to make a positive endorsement.

My Thoughts

The first question I always ask about waterproof shoes is: Are they really? These Loom Footwear sneakers are indeed as advertised. I stepped in a creek for more than a minute and did not detect any moisture inside the shoes. Now obviously, if you cross a stream that is deeper than your ankles the water will come in from the top. But for shallow water crossings, rain or light snow, these sneakers will keep your socks and feet dry.

When they first arrived, upon opening the shoe box, there was a strange odor. Not unpleasant, it was nevertheless noticeable. However, after a few days of use, that original smell went away. Could just be something about rubber and wool in a hot delivery truck.

I will offer a warning about sizing. I wear a men’s size 8.5 medium width. For some reason, these Loom shoes do not come in half sizes, so I went up to a size 9. When putting the shoes on for the first time, they were just a bit snug. However, a size 10 would have definitely been too big. I learned later that these are measured on the European scale, so when ordering I recommend you go up a full size from your normal. No half sizes can be problematic.

Despite being snug, these sneakers are very comfortable. I wore them immediately for exercise walking around the neighborhood. There is no break-in period at all. They are ready to go right out of the box. Additionally, despite being waterproof, they are not hot. They breathe well, so I have yet to end up with sweaty or stinky feet after use.

Because these Loom Footwear sneakers are also street shoes, they do not have the traditional waffle pattern you find on the soles of hiking boots or trail runners. So I was somewhat skeptical about how they would perform on a rocky or rooty trail. I was particularly concerned about slippery granite because of the flat sole.

The concern is warranted because I did notice some slippage. But frankly sometimes even the best hiking footwear will slip on wet surfaces. Still, because the soles of these shoes are flexible, they may not provide equal protection and support as a solid traditional hiking sole when walking over jagged rocky areas. If you tend to hike only on well-maintained trails, these shoes will do just fine.

So what do I think. I like them. They are definitely comfortable, so they make a fine exercise walking shoe. They aren’t likely to be my all-purpose hiker’s, but I will certainly wear them for easy, smooth-grade trails. I chose the black color and they look nice, so I will also wear them out and about town. The Loom Footwear website describes the shoes as selling for $250, but are on sale for $99. That seems kind of hokey. I would not pay $250.

How to Get a Pair

Loom Footwear 100% waterproof sneakers are available from the Loom Footwear website. They come in white or black for both men and women. You can receive a 10% discount by entering code Jeff10 at purchase.

This post was created by Jeff Clark. Please feel free to use the sharing icons below, or add your thoughts to the comments. Pack it in, pack it out. Preserve the past. Respect other hikers. Let nature prevail. Leave no trace.

Designed by firefighters and built in the U.S., the Survival Axe Elite (formerly the Lil Trucker) includes multiple tools for many occasions. It’s the quintessential gadget for campers, contractors, RV-lovers, and good old fashioned zombie hunters. Some of the features include a replaceable folding saw, a glass breaker, a can opener, a hatchet blade, a hex wrench, a strap cutter, a hammer, a nail puller, and even more.

Here are the special features and functions:

• Fully re-sharpenable Hatchet Blade
• Hammer
• Pry Bar/Wedge
• Sharpened Hook
• Nail Puller/Wire Twist
• 10-size Hex Wrench
• Spanner (for hose couplings)
• Gas Shut-Off
• Folding 6-inch Sawzall Blade (replaceable)
• Can Opener
• Bottle Opener
• Glass Breaker/Punch
• Strap and String Cutter (replaceable)
• Glass-Filled Nylon Handle

Disclosure: Innovation Factory contacted me with an offer to try their newly introduced Survival Axe Elite (formerly known as the Lil Trucker). It was provided at no cost to me. My only responsibility was an agreement to complete this review after trying the item. I was not pressured in any way to make a positive endorsement.

The Survival Axe Elite has quite the functionality.

What Did I Think?

The Survival Axe Elite is quite the useful tool to take along on your camping trip, or keep in your RV. Hammer in tent stakes. Cut fishing line. Chop fire wood. Open a can of beans, or a bottle cap. I’m likely to keep it stowed in the back of my Subaru.

However, I’m not likely to take it with me hiking. While the manufacturer has done everything they can to make the Survival Axe Elite as lightweight as possible, it also has to be sturdy. And with that comes heft. The tool weighs in right around three pounds, a bit much to stow in my pack.

Really, the only feature I would be likely to use on the trail is the hatchet… to remove blowdown. For that I can carry a much lighter pruning saw. Nothing against the hatchet, it works fine. Just a bit too heavy. But it needs to be in order to be effective.

I think this is a great idea and a useful tool. Just think practically, and take it with you where it’s most useful.

How to Get One

Survival Axe Elite comes in two colors: black/gold and army green, and retails for US$89. You can purchase the tool from Innovation Factory with or without a sheath for the hatchet blade, an extra US$25. The product is also available at Amazon.

The Survival Axe Elite comes with a Lifetime Warranty, and with free shipping over $75 in the continental U.S.

Disclosure: Innovation Factory contacted me with an offer to try their newly introduced Survival Axe Elite (formerly known as the Lil Trucker). It was provided at no cost to me. My only responsibility was an agreement to complete this review after trying the item. I was not pressured in any way to make a positive endorsement.

This post was created by Jeff Clark. Please feel free to use the sharing icons below, or add your thoughts to the comments. Pack it in, pack it out. Preserve the past. Respect other hikers. Let nature prevail. Leave no trace.

Made from lightweight and breathable Nylon Taslon Ripstop material, the Patroclus Vest from Pentagon features warm duck down insulation, full front YKK VISLON zipper, fleece lined collar for added environmental protection and two roomy hand pockets with soft inner lining for extra comfort.

In addition to that, the vest comes with a YKK secured chest pocket with internal security loop, elastic arm holes and fully adjustable elastic cords on the bottom hem. With soft and fast-drying properties, the Pentagon Patroclus Vest is in tune for hiking, fishing, camping and many other outdoor activities.

Disclosure: Military 1st contacted me to try one of their products. They recommended the Pentagon Patroclus Vest. The vest was provided at no cost to me. My only responsibility was an agreement to complete this review after trying the item. I was not pressured in any way to make a positive endorsement.

Feature Set

550 filled duck down liner vest
Soft and fast-drying Nylon fabric with downproof finish
VISLON YKK front zipper with chin guard
Collar lined with soft fleece to protect neck in harsh environment
Two large zipped hand pockets with fleece lining for added warmth
Zipped chest pocket with internal security loop
Internal pocket on the right side fastened with YKK zipper
Elasticated arm holes, adapting to most sizes
Adjustable bottom hem with elastic cords and quick-locks for individual fit
YKK garaged zippers throughout
Shell material: 100% Nylon Taslon Rip-Stop
Insulation material: 95% Duck down, 5% Down fiber
Inner lining material: 100% Nylon

Pentagon Patroclus Vest Black

What Did I Think?

My initial reaction when first trying on the Patroclus vest was, “Wow! This is warm.” It is indeed. While lightweight so far as pounds and ounces, the insulation power is impressive. This is definitely a winter vest. Since I’ve only had the chance to try it during autumn, it is perhaps a bit of overkill for 45°F. weather. However, I anticipate it being quite excellent when the temperature drops into the 20s. The duck down insulation certainly does its job.

I really like the fleece lined collar and side pockets. Both are a nice, soft touch for the neck and hands.

Speaking of pockets, for the most part there are enough. In addition to the outer side pockets, there is also a chest pocket that works great for a cellphone, or a compass, or perhaps a snack. The loop inside will secure your keys. Add one inner pocket on the right side and there are plenty of places to stow necessary winter items like gloves, ear band, or knit cap. All pockets are zippered. One more inner pocket would have been perfect.

The primary zipper goes all the way up to just below the chin with a padded zipper garage, so no need for a neck gaiter for extra warmth. The collar takes care of that just fine.

With elastic arm holes and bottom hem, the vest does a good job of keeping out the wind and wet. This isn’t a shell, so you don’t want to wear it for long in the rain, but it will keep you dry during a short drizzle.

Frankly, the only downside I can find to this vest is that it may seem a bit pricey. However, when you compare it to similar products from other manufacturers, it is no more costly than most popular outdoors brands. For what you are getting, I would say it is worth the expense.

Otherwise I really like the vest. It is a quality weave. This vest is built to last, and is quite comfortable to wear. I expect to still be wearing it 10 years from now… that is as long as I keep from getting a round belly. Save it, though, for particularly cold weather. It is too warm for fall and spring.

How to Get One for Yourself

The Pentagon Patroclus Vest comes in three colors: Black, coyote ( a light brown), and red. I chose the black myself. The vest comes in four sizes: from S to XL. The medium worked well for me. The vest has a suggested retail price of US$138.95. You can purchase one from Military 1st at their website. Check for availability of your preferred size and color before ordering.

Pentagon Patroclus Vest Size Chart in Centimeters

Disclosure: Military 1st contacted me to try one of their products. They recommended the Pentagon Patroclus Vest. The vest was provided at no cost to me. My only responsibility was an agreement to complete this review after trying the item. I was not pressured in any way to make a positive endorsement.

This post was created by Jeff Clark. Please feel free to use the sharing icons below, or add your thoughts to the comments. Pack it in, pack it out. Preserve the past. Respect other hikers. Let nature prevail. Leave no trace.

Are you an outdoors lover? Have you found yourself in a filthy pit toilet at a trailhead, or five miles into the wilderness with the sudden urge to go? Just think about your own experiences. There is likely a time where you may have given your left sock for one of these products. The made in the USA Potty Pack toilet pack combines everything but the toilet, all in a light weight, compact package.

Included are a seat cover, 4 feet of two-ply toilet paper, wet wipes and hand sanitizer. The wet wipes are made with Vitamin E and Aloe Vera. Follow up by cleaning your hands with the sanitizer lotion and hand wipes. They also have another product that replaces the seat cover with a disposal bag for Leave No Trace fans to carry out of the backcountry.

Think of the places this might come in handy: sporting events, outdoor concerts, camping, roadtrips; basically anywhere there is a porta-a-pot or pit toilet. Use this while hiking or camping, out hunting or fishing, running or cycling. It’s even great for the military.

Disclosure: Potty Packs contacted me with an offer to try their outdoors toilet packs. They were provided at no cost to me. My only responsibility was an agreement to complete this review after trying the items. I was not pressured in any way to make a positive endorsement.

Potty Pack container and contents.

What Did I Think?

I have always carried a small roll of toilet paper in my pack, y’know, just in case. The Potty Pack is great for its light weight and compact size. Just seven inches long and a quarter inch thick, you can throw 3-4 of them in your pack and keep them there at all times. They hardly take any space, and the weight is next-to-nothing. Always a good idea when trying to lighten your load.

This is a very practical, useful idea. With the toilet paper, sanitizer and moist wipes all included, you can go in the woods and also remain clean and hygienic. Put all the waste, including your own, in the disposal bag so you can pack it out of the backcountry, and you are also a good steward of the wilderness.

I like their tag line: When going #2 is your #1 concern. Who hasn’t been there, right? It isn’t often that I have to go in the woods, but Nature does happen. With that in mind, the Potty Pack is convenience personified.

How to Get Some for Yourself

The potty packs are priced at US$2.50 apiece, or a box of 20 for US$50.00.

You can purchase them directly from Potty Packs, or at Amazon.

Don’t get caught with your pants down!

Disclosure: Potty Packs contacted me with an offer to try their outdoors toilet packs. They were provided at no cost to me. My only responsibility was an agreement to complete this review after trying the items. I was not pressured in any way to make a positive endorsement.

This post was created by Jeff Clark. Please feel free to use the sharing icons below, or add your thoughts to the comments. Pack it in, pack it out. Preserve the past. Respect other hikers. Let nature prevail. Leave no trace.

The cut and pocket layout of the Helikon-Tex tactical shorts retains a civilian outlook. The OTP® design allows you to carry all essential equipment, and anatomic cut does not hinder movements. Elastic waistband and Velcro-closure allow a degree of adjustability within size. Large belt loops allow wide belts to be used. The jeans cut on the rear part of the pants prevents them from sliding down.

Pocket layout allows distributing the load close to the center mass – around hips and waist. Pocket edges are reinforced to withstand constant sliding of light and knives clips. Two Velcro-closed front pockets are big enough to take a smart phone – or a spare magazine. Zippered thigh pockets seem small enough, but they would carry a wallet or a small pouch. A variety of colors allow you to find the proper one to match working or outdoor conditions or other garments.

Disclosure: Military 1st contacted me to try one of their products. They recommended the Helikon-Tex Outdoor Tactical Shorts with 8.5″ inseam. The shorts were provided at no cost to me. My only responsibility was an agreement to complete this review after trying the item. I was not pressured in any way to make a positive endorsement.

Feature Set

Two classical pockets with light/knife clips edge reinforcements
Wide back pockets, fit for duty as dump pouches
Two narrow pockets inside rear pockets with adjustable depth
Two thigh pockets closed with an inverted YKK® zipper for ID and small personal items
Two front velcro-closed flapped pockets, for smartphones or magazines
Elastic waistband with velcro-closure for adjustment
50 mm wide belt loops
Two lanyard loops or D-rings at belt loops in front
Classical blue jeans cut reduces the pants tendency to ride down
Internal length of the pant leg: 8.5”
YKK® – zippered fly

What Did I Think?

These Helikon-Tex shorts are quite comfortable, breathable, and flexible. They are somewhat stretchy, so they move as you do, great for hiking. The belt loops are nice and wide so just about any size belt will fit. I always hate it when my favorite belt is too wide for the loops.

There are two things in particular about these shorts that really caught my attention… one positive, and one negative.

On the positive side: POCKETS! The pockets on these shorts are incredible. I have always had a thing for pockets when hiking. I like to have small items that I want access to quickly in my pockets rather than in my pack.

There are pockets inside of pockets. There are pockets with zippers. There are pockets with velcro. There is not one, but two specially made cell phone pockets that provide a snug, secure fit for your phone. It even has a flap for additional security.

There are pocket knife and flashlight pockets. The zippered pockets are ideal for wallet and keys security. The Teflon coated material is even somewhat water resistant offering protection from rain for electronic valuables. The pockets are mesh on the inside affording breathability and comfort.

Now the downside. I’m not a fan of the velcro clasp at the waist. Sure it’s great for adjustable fit as your waist grows or shrinks. In combination with elastic in the rear of the waistband, the size adjusts as much as 2-3 inches.

But you have to get each side of the velcro aligned just right or your shirt tail tends to get caught in the velcro, and the zipper doesn’t close all the way securely. Just a nit perhaps, but I’m used to snaps, clasps or loops. Wearing a belt helps.

Otherwise I really like these shorts and have worn them on every hike since receiving them from Military1st a couple weeks ago. They’re even somewhat fashionable as well.

How to Get Some for Yourself

The Helikon-Tex Outdoor Tactical Shorts with 8.5″ inseam comes in three colors: Khaki, shadow grey, and mud brown. I chose the khaki myself. They come in six sizes: from S to 3XL. The medium worked well for me. The shorts have a suggested retail price of US$58.90. You can purchase a pair from Military 1st at their website. Check for availability before ordering.

Disclosure: Military 1st contacted me to try one of their products. They recommended the Helikon Outdoor Tactical Shorts with 8.5″ inseam. The shorts were provided at no cost to me. My only responsibility was an agreement to complete this review after trying the item. I was not pressured in any way to make a positive endorsement.

This post was created by Jeff Clark. Please feel free to use the sharing icons below, or add your thoughts to the comments. Pack it in, pack it out. Preserve the past. Respect other hikers. Let nature prevail. Leave no trace.

We all love a good carabiner. We use them to clip our keys, our camera, our water bottle, or a myriad of other products to our backpacks, to shelves, to fences, to belt loops or to whatever we need at the moment. You want your carabiner to be strong, lightweight and maybe have some other functionality like a bottle opener.

The Firebiner is all that, plus it has the ability to make fire easily with patent-pending EverSpark technology. It has a titanium coated stainless steel body: construction rated for a minimum of 50 pounds of gear (not for climbing or hanging anything with a beating heart). And, don’t forget the small utility blade. Outdoor Element even designed in a screwdriver tip.

Here are some of the special features:

• Very strong stainless steel construction with a minimum 50 lbs capacity
• Extremely durable titanium coating
• Lightweight, only 1 oz
• Stainless steel safety blade to easily cut paracord, fishing line, string and much more
• Bottle opener for refreshment time
• Patent-pending spark wheel with EverSpark technology to help start fires easily
• Replaceable ferro rod, comes with 2 extra rods
• Hang slots to connect keys or anything else with an appropriate ring or clasp
• Strong, thin, stainless steel gate that stays closed but is easy to open when needed
• Flat head screwdriver tip
• Meets TSA requirements for airline travel
• 4 colors: Black, Silver, MTB & Blue

Disclosure: Outdoor Element contacted me with an offer to try one of their prototype Firebiners. It was provided at no cost to me. My only responsibility was an agreement to complete this review after trying the item. I was not pressured in any way to make a positive endorsement.

The Firebiner Survival Carabiner by Outdoor Element

What Did I Think?

The Firebiner is very easy to use. In fact, the most difficult thing about it may be getting it off the merchandising backer card. It is clipped on there tight. Seriously though, the screwdriver is strategically placed on the corner for ease of use. The bottle opener and utility blade are located in the same nook of the Firebiner opposite the gate.

Multiple hang slots enable you to attach the Firebiner to a key chain or a hook on your backpack. The Everspark fire wheel seems to live up to its name. I used it two dozen times back to back, and it created a big spark each and every time. The safety gate is also quite easy to open so you can attach the Firebiner wherever you would like, then it is hinged so it automatically pops back closed, a nice touch.

I did struggle some replacing the ferro rod for the spark wheel. It comes with a teeny tiny screwdriver to open the spring-loaded compartment that holds the rod. Getting the spring back in there and tightening the compartment screw definitely takes some practice. I might have said a cuss word or two.

Please make sure you don’t try to use the Firebiner as a real carabiner for climbing or supporting your weight. While it is rated up to 50 pounds, the Firebiner is designed to be a camping utility tool, not a climbing carabiner.

I think this is a great idea and a useful tool. The Firebiner has already found a place clipped to my backpack.

How to Get One

The Firebiner comes in four colors: black, silver, blue, and MTB (a multi-color). Until June 2017 you will need to pledge to the Firebiner Kickstarter campaign to obtain one. Or, you can pre-order from the Outdoor Element website.

Beginning in late May-early June, the production Firebiner will be available for retail sale with a MSRP of US$14.99 from multiple outlets. I will update this post to include those outlets at that time.

Disclosure: Outdoor Element contacted me with an offer to try one of their prototype Firebiners. It was provided at no cost to me. My only responsibility was an agreement to complete this review after trying the item. I was not pressured in any way to make a positive endorsement.

This post was created by Jeff Clark. Please feel free to use the sharing icons below, or add your thoughts to the comments. Pack it in, pack it out. Preserve the past. Respect other hikers. Let nature prevail. Leave no trace.

You subscribe: to have outdoors gear delivered directly to your home.
Nomadik curates: by seeking out high-end products and testing.
Then delivers: every month Nomadik delivers the box to your doorstep.

Subscription services are gaining popularity in the shopping world. This month I introduce you to The Nomadik, a new startup that aims to keep your outdoors gear closet stocked with products you will need on the trail by delivering subscription boxes on a regular basis.

Disclosure: The Nomadik contacted me with an offer to try one of their gear boxes. It was provided at no cost to me. My only responsibility was an agreement to complete this review after trying the items. I was not pressured in any way to make a positive endorsement.

Gear Box Contents

The Nomadik gear box that was sent to me included:

• Parks Project — Park Watcher Beanie
• Mizu — Collapsible Shot Glass
• Ritual — Caffeinated Energy Snack
• Niteize — S-Biner #3

What Did I Think?

All of the items included in the box I received are of high quality. I found the Parks Project beanie to be especially nice. Warmer than most knit caps, it is woven to be durable. Since I can’t have caffeine because of a skin condition, I shared the energy snacks with my companion. I really don’t have any use for a shot glass, so I will also find someone else that can utilize it effectively. The Niteize S-Biner is made out of stainless steel and is rated to hold up to 25 pounds.

The Nomadik has chosen wisely among the outdoors gear products they ship. All items are from recognizable brands that have proven track records.

The Nomadik executes this niche marketing well. Their packaging is clean and appealing, and the products they ship are of good quality and variety. If you’re a hiker or adventurer who doesn’t think about supplies until the last minute, subscribing to a service like The Nomadik may save you a few trips to the store. If you’re obsessed with outdoors preparation and organization, The Nomadik can help you achieve your goals. If you like surprises, subscription services are like having a birthday every month.

How to Get One

There are three subscription plans at The Nomadik, enabling you to pay monthly, or 3 to 6 months in advance. The prices range from US$30 per box by paying monthly, to US$26 per box by paying 6 months in advance. All subcriptions renew automatically, but can be cancelled anytime.

The Nomadik donates a portion of all proceeds to 1% For the Planet.

Disclosure: The Nomadik contacted me with an offer to try one of their gear boxes. It was provided at no cost to me. My only responsibility was an agreement to complete this review after trying the items. I was not pressured in any way to make a positive endorsement.

This post was created by Jeff Clark. Please feel free to use the sharing icons below, or add your thoughts to the comments. Pack it in, pack it out. Preserve the past. Respect other hikers. Let nature prevail. Leave no trace.